Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

A quick and easy take on the classic Southern shrimp boil—baked on a single sheet pan for minimal mess and maximum flavor! This recipe is packed with savory sausage, juicy shrimp, tender potatoes, and sweet corn, all tossed in a seasoned garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 pound baby red potatoes, halved
  • 3 ears corn, each cut crosswise into 4 pieces
  • 12 ounces smoked andouille sausage, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook potatoes until just tender, about 10-13 minutes. Stir in corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking time; drain well.
  3. Place potatoes, corn, sausage, and shrimp in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Stir in olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and paprika; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Gently toss to combine.
  4. Place into oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and corn is tender.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: ~450
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Carbohydrates: ~25g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Saturated Fat: ~6g
  • Cholesterol: ~180mg
  • Sodium: ~1100mg
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sugars: ~3g

The Essence of a Shrimp Boil

A shrimp boil, also known as a Low Country Boil, is a Southern dish that typically involves boiling shrimp, sausage, potatoes, corn, and sometimes other vegetables or seasonings in a large pot. Traditionally, it’s prepared outdoors in large quantities, perfect for family gatherings, beach picnics, or summer cookouts. The food is typically served on a table covered with newspaper or butcher paper, and diners are encouraged to dive in, peel shrimp, and enjoy the delicious, messy feast.

However, the sheet pan version of the shrimp boil makes it possible to enjoy all the classic flavors of this beloved dish without the need for a large pot or an outdoor setting. Baking everything on a sheet pan not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures that each ingredient is infused with the savory flavors of the seasonings and cooked to perfection in the oven. The result is a fuss-free meal that brings the taste of a traditional shrimp boil to your kitchen with much less effort.

Why Choose a Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil?

One of the key advantages of preparing a sheet pan shrimp boil is the ease of cooking. Unlike a traditional shrimp boil, which requires a large pot of water and various steps of cooking each ingredient separately, the sheet pan method allows you to place everything on a single sheet, making cleanup a breeze. There’s no need to monitor a large pot of boiling water, and there’s no worry about juggling multiple ingredients at once.

Additionally, the sheet pan method retains the rich flavors of a shrimp boil, but with a more controlled cooking process. The ingredients are roasted together in the oven, allowing the natural juices of the shrimp, sausage, and vegetables to meld together. The seasoning mixture, often including a blend of spices like Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and smoked paprika, infuses the ingredients with deep, savory flavor, creating a satisfying dish that’s bursting with Southern charm.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the reasons a sheet pan shrimp boil is so versatile is because it’s perfect for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, planning a weekend cookout, or preparing a meal for a group of friends, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to double or triple the recipe, depending on the size of your gathering, and it’s a fun, communal meal that encourages everyone to dive in and enjoy.

The sheet pan shrimp boil also works well as a standalone meal or paired with other dishes. You can serve it with a fresh green salad, cornbread, or even a side of creamy coleslaw to round out the meal. And if you’re looking for a way to elevate the dish, consider serving it with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a lemon butter sauce or spicy cocktail sauce, to add an extra layer of flavor.

Health Benefits of Shrimp and Sausage

When it comes to nutrition, the sheet pan shrimp boil offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood option that provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iodine. It’s also relatively low in fat, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Sausage, while higher in fat and calories, can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal. Smoked andouille sausage, which is commonly used in this recipe, adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the shrimp and vegetables beautifully. While sausage should be consumed in moderation due to its higher fat content, it’s also a good source of protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc.

The addition of potatoes and corn provides a healthy dose of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins. Potatoes are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and they also provide a satisfying, filling base for the dish. Corn, on the other hand, is a good source of fiber and antioxidants, which support digestive health and help protect the body from oxidative stress.

Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

To ensure your sheet pan shrimp boil turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Use fresh, high-quality shrimp. For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh or frozen shrimp that have been properly thawed before cooking. Make sure to peel and devein the shrimp to remove any gritty residue and ensure a clean, enjoyable bite.

  2. Don’t overcook the shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it during the baking process. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, so remove the pan from the oven as soon as the shrimp turns opaque.

  3. Choose the right sausage. While any sausage can work for this recipe, smoked andouille sausage adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you prefer a milder sausage, feel free to substitute with another variety of your choice.

  4. Pre-cook the potatoes. Since potatoes take longer to cook than corn or shrimp, it’s a good idea to pre-cook them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding them to the sheet pan. This ensures they’ll be tender by the time everything else is done.

  5. Customize the seasonings. While Old Bay seasoning is a classic choice for a shrimp boil, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste. You can add a little extra paprika for smokiness, a dash of cayenne pepper for heat, or even some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.

  6. Serve immediately. For the best experience, serve the shrimp boil right out of the oven while everything is still hot. The combination of sizzling shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender vegetables is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

The sheet pan shrimp boil is a delicious, convenient, and family-friendly dish that brings the flavors of a traditional Southern shrimp boil right into your home. With its rich seasoning, tender shrimp, savory sausage, and hearty vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a party, or simply craving a flavorful meal.

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